To Love is to Listen

This statement stung as I saw how often I’ve failed to love. I have been told that I am a good listener (and on bad days, a not so good listener), but I am learning that I have only begun scratching the surface in honing this seemingly simple, yet subtle, art.

I realized that I often listen to people to find out what they need in order to try to help them. Of course there is value in this, but I am finding that there is a much greater purpose in listening: listening in order to hear, understand, know…

How much intimacy and insight there is to be won by truly hearing peoples’ hearts… such an accessible and powerful opportunity to show someone how valuable they are.

I have often missed out on such opportunities with God as well, as the majority of our conversations have consisted of me speaking way more than listening. Thankfully, He is gracious and still speaks, but how much more would I hear what He is saying if I would just listen? (Thankfully too, He is an attentive Father and loves to hear me out, but still…)

I am excited as I explore this discipline of listening. Excited to hear, to discover, to grow, to connect with others and with God, as well as with myself, as I stop and listen to what my own heart is saying.

Hi Hannah.
A challenging thought indeed. When it comes to relationships we dont listen enough! Or we have our own agendas for listening when we are supposed to just simply really listen!
This is something I am working on constantly. Thanks for the insight!

Hi Rolain,
I’m glad you found this insightful. Yes, it’s something we always need to work on/be mindful of, but I’m finding it so rewarding – not only relationship-wise but the more I listen, the more I learn…

I am glad you went by my blog, my reader shows only a few post and miss things :), I been thinking about this for a while… sometimes friends or relationship are so affected by this that their relationship fades it is a simple thing but affect in so many ways.I agree with you same with god, we often should listen, l love going outdoors and be silent just to see what he has to say, maybe he is telling me something through you…will try to listen tonight 😉 good post.

Of life, of dance, of trying, of hoping and dreaming, of doubting, of taking baby steps, of falling and getting back up laughing, of tears and sweat and bruises, of failures and victories, of stories and friends to share them with, of quiet moments alone with my thoughts, of regrets, of having no regrets, of faith, of fears, of adventure.